Barcelona Introduction Walking Tour (Self Guided), Barcelona

Designed by Gaietà Buigas for the 1888 Universal Exhibition, the Columbus Monument stands at the base of La Rambla, symbolizing the Catalans' recognition of Christopher Columbus as one of their own, despite his Italian origins. Atop the monument, a striking bronze statue of the explorer, sculpted by Rafael Atché, captures attention. Originally intended to face west towards the Americas, it now points east, either towards Columbus's birthplace of Genoa, Italy, or simply striking a dramatic pose. Inscribed with the word "Tierra" (land), the statue stands above a series of intricate sculpted images depicting significant moments from Columbus's journey to the Americas, including encounters with native people, notable locations, and his meeting with King Ferdinand and Queen Isabella of Spain.

Venturing inside the monument, visitors can take a lift to reach a viewing platform at its pinnacle, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the city. Upon returning to the ground, wine enthusiasts can indulge in a tasting experience within the monument's cellar. A combined ticket for both the lift ride and wine tasting can be obtained at the base of the monument.

Tip:
Take the time to go around the monument and take in its sculptures showcased at the base, while also discovering the wine bar and a boutique offering unique souvenirs and gifts that surpass the mass-produced items found at street vendors. To further enhance your experience, ascend to the viewing platform via an elevator, where you can enjoy a sweeping view of the surrounding area. Please note that an admission fee is required for access to the platform.

Viewing Platform:
Daily: 8:30am–2:30pm

La Rambla, Barcelona's main thoroughfare teeming with colourful shops, cafes, restaurants, and an eclectic mix of visitors, embodies the city's adventurous and independent spirit. Stretching 1.2 kilometers from the Columbus Monument at the Old Port ("Port Vell") to the bustling Catalonia Square ("Plaça de Catalunya"), it pulsates with energy, particularly during the peak tourist season. As you stroll along, be aware of the charming pavement cafes and enticing souvenir kiosks that beckon travelers, but also remain vigilant against the occasional presence of pickpockets—keeping your eyes open is always a wise precaution.

The prices here are a bit steeper than elsewhere in the city, but then again, excitement does come at a price, and La Rambla sure gives tonnes of it. As renowned Spanish poet Federico García Lorca once expressed, it is a street that one wishes would never end. Ahh...

Tip:
You must traverse La Rambla to reach the famous La Boqueria market, which has a plethora of places to eat and many great options. However, for excellent food at more affordable prices and the opportunity to savor your meal in a relaxed setting, venture to the Mercat de Santa Caterina, just a 10-minute walk away from La Boqueria.

Nestled in a discreet corner just off the bustling La Rambla, Antoni Gaudí's inaugural masterpiece in Barcelona swiftly propelled him to international acclaim for his remarkable and innovative architecture. Constructed in 1889 for the magnate Eusebi Güell, who became Gaudí's lifelong patron, the building stands out for its unconventional approach of showcasing iron supports as decorative elements, with intricately shaped and twisted columns, arches, and ceilings that would come to define Gaudí's future creations, culminating in a whimsical array of tiled chimneys on the roof terrace.

With no budget constraints set by Güell, Gaudí spared no expense, utilizing the finest materials and craftsmen. The central room on the main floor stands out as a remarkable feature, soaring three floors high and crowned with a cupola. Hidden within the ornate walls and ceiling are small observation holes, allowing the owner to discreetly observe guests from the upper floor before personally greeting them. The grand oval gates at the entrance, adorned with intricate ironwork resembling seaweed, provided direct access for high-society guests arriving in carriages, leading them to the horse stables located in the basement. From there, they could ascend to the upper floors.

Why You Should Visit:
Being slightly tucked away from the renowned La Rambla, this lesser-known gem attracts fewer tourists, offering a delightful opportunity to admire Gaudí's work in the charming old quarter of the city, while also saving time.

Tip:
The highlight here is the rooftop terrace and its colorful chimneys adorned with mosaic and broken tiles, each one unique. Take note that on rainy days, the rooftop may be closed, so it's advisable to check the weather forecast beforehand to ensure a pleasant visit.

Opening Hours:
Tue-Sun: 10am–8pm

Located to the north of La Rambla and a couple of blocks south of Catalonia Square, La Boqueria Market is extremely busy no matter what time you go. Despite the constant flow of visitors, the experienced vendors efficiently handle the crowds, and the market's spacious layout helps ensure an enjoyable shopping experience.

With its rich history dating back to 1217, when meat stalls were first set up near the old city gate, La Boqueria offers a fantastic opportunity to explore traditional Catalan cuisine, take yourself on a tapas tour, sample exquisite jamón with cheese, purchase the world's freshest saffron (sold in various-sized small boxes) and seafood (no fish Sundays and Mondays), and discover culinary souvenirs. Don't miss the chance to try the freshly cooked fish at Kiosko Universal (a sit-down counter/bar-like place) or indulge in the wide variety of olives and delicious fresh fruits.

Venture deep into the market to find the best stalls and try a little of everything – you won't be disappointed.

Tip:
Keep in mind that the area is known for pickpocketing incidents, so whether you're alone or with friends, it's recommended to be vigilant and keep a close eye on your belongings.

Opening Hours:
Mon-Sat: 8am–8:30pm; closed on Sundays

Plaça Nova, or the New Square, offers a rich experience for history and art enthusiasts. It holds significant historical value as the birthplace of the ancient city of Barcino, and visitors can marvel at the monumental gateway that once formed part of Barcelona's Roman wall. Among other highlights is the renowned Architects' Association of Catalonia building adorned with sand-cast friezes designed by Pablo Picasso. The square also showcases splendid examples of Gothic art and architecture.

With roots dating back to 1358, when it served as a hay market, the square allows visitors to witness remnants of the Roman wall and gateway that once led to the Forum. Flanking the gate are two circular towers, which were added during 12th-century renovations, although the original defense towers and walls trace their roots back to the 1st century BC and the 4th century AD. Adjacent to the Archdeacon's House, visitors can observe a replica of a section of the Roman aqueduct, serving as a reminder of the city's water supply. Across from it, a visual poem by Catalan artist Joan Brossa spells out the word "Barcino", further enhancing the square's artistic charm.

Tip:
On Thursdays from 9am to 8pm, the square transforms into a market featuring antique dealers. Plaça Nova is also a venue for festivals and Sardanas, particularly around August 16, the day of Saint Roch. This festive celebration showcases unique traditions and adds a distinct charm to Barcelona's cultural tapestry.

With its intricate architecture and inviting ambiance, Barcelona Cathedral presents a captivating sight, offering a serene alternative to the renowned La Sagrada Família, all without an admission fee. The cathedral's spacious front courtyard provides a clear view of its impressive façade, while stepping beneath the soaring vaults of the nave can transport you to another era.

Unlike many other churches in Barcelona that were destroyed during the Civil War, this compact Gothic cathedral, dedicated to the city's patron saint St Eulàlia, was spared. Its construction began in 1298 under Jaime II, on the foundations of a site with roots dating back to Visigothic times. However, it was not fully completed until the late 19th century, resulting in a unique appearance that distinguishes it from the rest of the Gothic Quartet.

Within the cathedral's crypt, visitors can find the white marble sarcophagus of St Eulàlia. An intriguing feature is the presence of thirteen geese in the cloister, symbolizing St Eulàlia's age at the time of her martyrdom.

Make sure to take your time exploring the cathedral's exceptional interior, as well as venturing up to the lofty roof terrace and strolling through the peaceful cloisters.

Why You Should Visit:
A delightful combination of a church, mini-park, and a place to relax and pray.

Tip:
Cathedral Visit (Choir entrance + Access to the rooftop + Chapter hall + Virtual Audio guide) €9.00
Cathedral + Museum (Choir entrance + Access to the rooftop + Chapter hall + Virtual Audio guide + Museum) €15.00

Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 8am–12:45pm, 1–5:30pm, 5:45–7:30pm; Sat: 8am–12:45pm, 1–5pm, 5:15–8pm; Sun: 8am–1:45pm, 2–5pm, 5:15–8pm

The Palace of Catalan Music is an exceptional concert hall that first opened its doors in 1908. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1997, this architectural masterpiece by Lluís Domènech i Montaner stands as a true representation of Catalan Art Nouveau. What sets it apart is its remarkable feature of being the only European auditorium illuminated entirely by natural light during the day. Despite being somewhat overshadowed by the renowned works of Antoni Gaudí, the palace is unquestionably an architectural gem that deserves exploration, even if only from the outside.

The facade of the is a lavish display of traditional Spanish and Arab decorative styles. At its corner stands a sculpture representing Catalan folk song, which is very much a song set in stone – uplifting and inspiring.. Above it, an allegorical mosaic showcases busts of renowned composers such as Bach, Beethoven, and, of course, the most popular composer of the early 20th century, Wagner.

While entry to the palace foyer and courtyard is free, the main attraction lies on the first floor where modernist excesses truly run wild and each decorated surface is the work of fine craftsmanship. The spectacular stained glass ceiling, recognized as an engineering marvel of its time, is particularly worth seeing. But the wonder doesn't stop there. Take the time to explore the beautiful three-dimensional muses emerging from the walls at the back of the stage, and be astonished by the masterpiece proscenium framing the stage, featuring Valkyries in motion. Truly an astounding sight!

Perhaps the best way to acquaint yourself with the palace is to take a guided tour – these are quite popular, so advance booking is recommended. Alternatively, you may pop in for a coffee or tapas lunch at the foyer bar to sample the atmosphere and see plenty of modernist detail, or, even better, attend one of the concerts. The concert program includes classical music, jazz and sometimes ethnic music as well. The top-notch sound and lighting systems make the entire setting very intimate and fit to render any performance memorable if not the highlight of your Barcelona experience altogether! So, do give it a thought...

To fully immerse yourself in the palace's splendor, consider joining a guided tour, as they tend to be popular. Alternatively, you may pop in for a coffee or tapas lunch at the foyer bar to sample the atmosphere and see plenty of modernist detail, or, even better, attend one of the concerts. The concert program features a variety of genres, including classical music, jazz, and sometimes ethnic music. The superb sound and lighting systems create an intimate setting, fit to render any performance memorable – if not the highlight of your Barcelona experience altogether! So, do give it a thought...

Tip:
Don't forget to bring opera glasses or binoculars to fully appreciate the details, and be sure to check out the café on the ground floor for a pleasant treat.

Daily Tours:
10am–3:30pm (advance booking recommended)

As well as serving as the most connected transit hub for Barcelona's metropolitan area, Catalonia Square is "the heart of the city" in a wider sense. Undoubtedly one of the busiest and vibrant locations, it acts as a starting point for Barcelona's main arteries, such as La Rambla, the Gràcia Boulevard, and the Angel's Gate ("Portal de l'Àngel"). It's also the connection point between the Old City and its gridded 19th-century extension known as Eixample, which is home to some of Europe's most exquisite architecture.

As one of the largest and most bustling squares in Spain, Plaça de Catalunya is teeming with endless restaurants, hotels, shops, cafes, and entertainment venues, making it a vibrant place to explore. In the center of the square, you'll find pavement stones arranged in the shape of a star, which is believed to mark the center of the Catalonian capital.

For high fashion, design, jewelry and department stores, the principal shopping axis starts here – so if you're in for some retail therapy, this is the place to go. An initial orientation point for visitors is the white-faced El Corte Inglés, Spain's only surviving department store, a colossal fortress-like behemoth that houses everything you would expect – from books, music and food to high fashion, jewelry, technology, and homeware. The store is famous for its decent customer service, but also the 9th-floor cafeteria where you can get a seat by the window and enjoy a panoramic view over the square below. On the opposite side is El Triangle, a commercial center that is home to FNAC, a mega media store with several slick floors of books, music, and technology.

The square is also known for its fountains and statues, attracting flocks of tourists and pigeons in their thousands. As the afternoon progresses, it gets increasingly crowded and colorful, perfect to get a sense of life in Barcelona as there are always lots and lots of details to observe.

Tip:
While the fountains are beautiful during the day, make sure to witness their display at night when they come alive with alternating colored lights.

Formerly known as Camí de Jesús (or "Jesus Road"), this wide, tree-lined avenue originally connected the Old City and the former village of Gràcia even before Barcelona's ancient walls were torn down. The urban development project initiated in 1820 provided impetus for Gràcia Avenue into the vibrant boulevard it is today. By the early 1900s, it had already become Barcelona's most fashionable boulevard.

Aside from the beautiful wrought-iron street lamps installed in 1906, one can also notice here the greenish-gray pavement tiles designed by Antoni Gaudí, depicting abstract sea creatures which add a great deal of uniqueness to the area.

Delightful for strollers, this avenue is now home to many of the city's upscale stores, comparable to Paris's Champs-Élysées or New York's 5th Avenue. While dining here can be a bit pricey, there are affordable options tucked away in the side streets, offering a diverse range of cuisines, from Syrian and Ethiopian to innovative Asian fusions.

More notably, this is also the top place for Modernist architecture, concentrated along the main street and some of the adjacent streets as well. Buildings, balconies, stained-glass windows and carved doors are all within sight, including major highlights like Gaudí's La Pedrera and the Block of Discord ("Manzana de la Discordia"), showcasing the works of the world's top Modernist architects. With the most mansions here belonging to Barcelona's wealthiest citizens of the late 19th to early 20th centuries, there's no shortage of richly and tastefully decorated facades to behold. Day or night, Gràcia Avenue offers a fantastic opportunity for architecture buffs to crane their necks admiring Barcelona's urbanism.

Tip:
This boulevard is particularly magical in summer when the locals compete between themselves decorating the streets as part of the Gràcia Festival, which, together with the live music played everywhere, makes it a really fun place to be.

Designed by Lluís Domènech i Montaner, Casa Lleó is one of the three Modernist buildings that make up the Block of Discord ("Manzana de la Discordia") on Barcelona's Gràcia Avenue, alongside Casa Batlló and Casa Amatller. Originally constructed in 1864 and renovated in 1902, it may appear less extravagant than its counterparts, but no less opulent when it comes to the richly decorated balconies and facade. The ground floor, altered years ago, has recently been restored to its original beauty and now looks quite impressive.

The edifice stands out with its distinctive egg-shaped rooftop and intricately ornamented round-shape balcony. Upon closer inspection, one can notice the building's name, "Lleó Morera," depicted on the facade, which translates to "lion" and "mulberry" in Catalan. Additionally, there is a depiction of a light bulb and a telephone, symbolizing the latest inventions of the time.

The first-floor dining room reveals one of Barcelona's most stunning interiors, showcasing stained-glass windows, exquisite woodwork, marble details, complete with the eight ceramic mosaic wall panels depicting idyllic countryside scenes. Together, these elements set Casa Lleó Morera apart from the works of the city's other renowned modernist, Antoni Gaudí. The staircase in the house is also notably unique for European buildings of that period.

Compared to the more popular and besieged by visitors Amatller and Batlló houses, a visit to Lleó Morera offers a comfortably relaxed experience without being dull. Guided tours of the building are available for a fee, making it an excellent choice for passionate modernist enthusiasts and architecture buffs who won't be disappointed by the experience.

Casa Amatller, one of Barcelona's most unforgettable architectural wonders, appears as if it has been plucked from a fairy tale. Constructed in the late 19th century, this magnificent house showcases the distinctive Modernist style that influenced many buildings across the city. Standing adjacent to Antoni Gaudí's Casa Batlló and facing the prestigious Gràcia Avenue, it is a masterpiece in its own right, crafted by Josep Puig i Cadafalch, one of Gaudí's prominent competitors.

Originally intended as a family residence for the renowned chocolatier Antoni Amatller Costa, who was also an avid art collector, photographer, and traveler, the building immediately catches the eye with its striking triangular stepped gable inspired by Dutch urban architecture. The wrought-iron balcony and vibrant ceramic tiles adorning the exterior wall contribute to its whimsical appearance, much as the grand doors with stained-glass windows in the lobby.

Visitors have the opportunity to explore the mansion's intriguing and extravagant interior, including bedrooms, dressing rooms, bathrooms, the dining room, music room, and the scullery, all with their original furnishings. Audio guides are available in various languages to enhance the tour experience.

Tip:
After immersing yourself in the mansion's splendor, you can unwind at the café on the ground floor, indulging in a cup of coffee or a light snack – or better yet, a nice cup of hot chocolate paired with a soft bread toast. There's plenty of chocolate to choose from, from chocolate bars to chocolate-coated nuts to cute little boxes of chocolate candies and more – a perfect edible souvenir from Barcelona for a sweet-tooth waiting for you back home!

Opening Hours:
Daily: 10am–8pm

Casa Batlló – a prominent symbol of Modernism and Catalan Art Nouveau architecture in Barcelona – is widely hailed as Antoni Gaudí's ultimate masterpiece. Originally constructed in the 1870s, Gaudí undertook a remarkable renovation project in 1904 that transformed this ordinary mansion into a true work of art. Lovingly referred to by locals as the "house of bones" due to its bone-like balconies, or the "house of the dragon" for its roof resembling the humped and glossy scales of a dragon's back, it stands as one of Europe's most peculiar residential buildings.

Few structures in the world possess such an organic quality, where Casa Batlló exudes a sense of being alive rather than inanimate. Any time – day or night, a small crowd gathers outside, gazing up at the undulating facade adorned with a mosaic of fragmented colored glass and ceramic discs. Gaudí's use of light and color is wonderful, particularly in the ceramics, and the curves soften the hard materials quite brilliantly. While exploring the building's interior requires an admission fee that may be considered steep compared to other attractions in Barcelona, it is a worthwhile experience to witness the swirly and curvaceous design.

To fully appreciate Casa Batlló, it is recommended to avail oneself of the free audio guide, which provides valuable insights into the building's historical and artistic context. Although the rooms are now devoid of furniture, the audio guide allows visitors to envision the original furnishings and lighting that once graced the space. As in the case of Casa Milà, Gaudí designed every single bit and piece here, even down to the door handles, ensuring their seamless integration and harmony with the overall form and function.

Despite the presence of an elevator, you are encouraged to walk up the stairs to the rooftop, so as to soak up the atmosphere with its intricate textures and shapes, including glass walls and tiles. At the rooftop's culmination, you'll be rewarded with a scenic view of the surroundings, as well as the up-close encounter with the roof itself including, of course, the signature twisted and tiled chimney pots looking as if they were brought in from a land far, far away...

Tip:
For a fee, you have the opportunity to have your photo taken on the small balcony at the front of the building (as you descend from the rooftop), receiving both a printed copy and an electronic version for a memorable keepsake.

Opening Hours:
Daily: 9am–8pm

Hugging the corner of Gràcia Avenue ("Passeig de Gràcia"), the curvy Casa Milà is yet another fabulous creation by Antoni Gaudí, located just minutes away from his other masterpiece, Casa Batlló. Commissioned by a wealthy developer who had just married an even wealthier widow, this apartment block stands out as the most innovative in all of Barcelona and vividly illustrates how well ahead of his time Gaudí, the designer, really was.

The nickname La Pedrera ("The Quarry") stems from the building's stony, fortress-like appearance, but Gaudí himself thought of it more as a body covered in skin, with the columns serving as its skeleton and the stone as its flesh. It may not look much from a distance, but as you approach, you are gradually drawn in and can't stop staring! The whole structure is so seamlessly sinuous that it looks as if molded rather than constructed, while the apartments inside resemble eroded cave dwellings.

After being declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1984, the house was acquired by a Catalonian banking foundation and, upon the completion of restoration and cleaning works, some of its original decorations came back into sight. The owners also refurbished the building, adding several new features within.

One notable addition is a meticulously recreated early 20th-century-style apartment on the fourth floor, showcasing the elegant living quarters of an affluent family from that era. The attic houses a tribute to Gaudí's life and work, featuring scale models, plans, drawings, and photographs of all his Barcelona creations. Amongst the exhibits, one can observe Gaudí's inspiration drawn from natural elements like pumpkins, seashells, and even python skeletons.

In keeping with the building's facade, the roof terrace preserves its distinctive architectural style through chimneys, ventilation shafts, and stairwells, all while retaining their practical functions. From there, one can enjoy a stunning panoramic view of Barcelona, providing a tranquil escape from the bustling streets below. It's worth noting that the rooftop terrace is closed during rainy weather, so make sure to visit on a clear day.

Tip:
To avoid waiting in line, do try and book your ticket online in advance and, if possible, visit around sunset when the lights are on, allowing you to experience the surreal audiovisual show. During the summer months, jazz and flamenco concerts are often held here, which is quite a treat as well.

Opening Hours:
Daily: 9am-8:30pm (March-Oct / Dec 26-Jan 3); 9am-6:30pm (Nov-Feb)
[Night Tour]: Daily: 9-11pm (March-Oct / Dec 26-Jan 3); 7-9pm (Nov-Feb)

Up close, Gaudí's grand Gothic masterpiece is truly awe-inspiring. The colossal basilica appears to emerge from the ground, reaching ever higher as far as the eye can see. Gaudí dedicated an impressive 43 years of his career to designing this iconic monument, and the still ongoing construction works are as much part of the attraction as the building itself.

While the exterior offers a lot to admire, the interior is equally extraordinary, with the eyes being drawn at once to the walls and the roof. Immense, luminous stained-glass windows line the walls, flooding the church with natural light and a kaleidoscope of colors. Supported by countless pillars with robust bases that branch out like trees towards the ceiling, the temple's roof resembles a vibrant forest canopy.

Simply wandering around and taking in the sights may suffice in an ordinary church, but the Sagrada Família leaves you clueless as a rock if you decide to do the same here. This cathedral is on a whole other level, and it's worth delving into its fascinating details with the help of a guide. Fortunately, audio devices are available at the entrance, providing ample information while allowing enough time for exploration. Alternatively, you can book a guided tour in your preferred language directly on the basilica's website.

When planning your visit, pre-purchasing a ticket online is absolutely recommended and will let you skip the long queues upon arrival.

Furthermore, don't miss the opportunity to explore the museum below, offering a wealth of information, including audiovisual presentations, about the Sagrada Família project's history, future plans, and Gaudí himself. You may also want to visit the small school built by Antoni Gaudí for the children of the construction workers right on the site.

Tip:
Please note that children under 6 years old are not permitted to ascend the towers, and the spiral staircase can be challenging for some. If you decide to climb, ask the staff for directions to the "backside elevator", as it is usually less crowded.

Opening Hours:
Daily: 9am-8pm (Apr-Sep); 9am-7pm (Mar, Oct); 9am-6pm (Nov-Feb); 9am-2pm (Dec 25/26, Jan 1/6)
Last entry: 30 mins before closing time